University of Delaware Standout Allie Mikelson Takes Part in Women’s National Field Hockey Tournament

By Delaware Athletics

Jul 1, 2014

LANCASTER, Pa. – University of Delaware field hockey was well represented at the Women’s National Field Hockey Championships last week as rising Blue Hen junior Allie Mikelson competed in the USA Tournament.

Mikelson, a midfielder from Macungie, Pa. (Emmaus High School), competed for The Patriots and led her team in a highly-competitive tournament that included some of the best players from around the country. Playing both left and right back, Mikelson made some key defensive plays to assist her team.

“Playing at the Women’s National Championship was a lot of fun and it was a great learning experience,” said Mikelson. “The tournament definitely contributed to my summer goals of improving decision-making, my speed, and faster skill execution. I can’t wait to carry over what I have learned to my Blue Hen family and team (this fall).”

Mikelson is coming off an outstanding 2013 season in which she led Delaware to the Colonial Athletic Association Tournament title and a first round in the NCAA Tournament. She earned second team All-CAA honors after scoring three goals and dishing out six assists while starting all 22 games.

The Women’s National Championship is held annually and features the most elite athletes in the country, including top collegiate players, current U.S. National Team members, and members of the 2012 Olympic Women’s Field Hockey Team.

Athletes train at high performance sites throughout the country in hopes of being named to the Women’s National Championship squad for their region. The eight regional squads then faced off for the prestigious National Championship.

“Allie’s courage to put herself up for selection among the top U.S. Field Hockey athletes is a great illustration of her individual desires and team goals,” said Delaware head coach Rolf van de Kerkhof. “Allie’s commitment, leadership, and playing experience are great assets she brings on a daily basis to the Blue Hens.”